Measles

The measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect you and your family from measles.

What is Measles?
Measles is a highly infectious respiratory disease that can result in severe, sometimes permanent, complications including pneumonia, seizures (jerking and staring), brain damage, and death. It is highly contagious and spreads easily by contact with an infected person through coughing and sneezing. In fact, if a person has measles, 9 out of 10 of his close contacts will get it too, unless they are protected. Symptoms include rash, cough, runny nose, eye irritation, and fever.

Why should I get vaccinated?
Measles cases in the US are at a 15-year high, due largely to international travel. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2014, there were 23 outbreaks and 644 cases of measles in the United States, the highest number for one year since the disease was eliminated from the country in 2000. More alarmingly, from January 1 to April 10, 2015, 159 people from 18 states and Washington, DC, were reported to have measles.

Infant & Childhood Immunization RecommendationsIn the US, two doses of the MMR vaccine is recommended for children. Infants normally get their first measles vaccine between 12 and 15 months followed by another shot between 4 and 6 years. However, the CDC recommends that any baby as young as 6 months old that will be travelling internationally should get a vaccine before leaving followed by two more vaccines later.

Infants should receive their first dose at 12-15 months of age

the second dose should be provided before entering school, at 4-6 years of age

Adolescent & Adult Immunizations Recommendations
Adolescents who were not previously vaccinated should get two doses (with at least 28 days between doses); those who only received one dose previously should get the second dose. Complications from measles are more common among adults. All adults born in 1957 or later who have not been vaccinated or have not had measles should be vaccinated. The CDC states that if you are not sure about your vaccination status, it is safe to get another measles vaccine. The only people who should not get vaccinated are those who are immune-compromised. Talk to your healthcare professional to find out if you should receive a vaccination.

Anyone born during or after 1957 who has not had measles should receive at least one dose of MMR vaccine

Two doses of MMR vaccine are recommended for adults at higher risk, including;

College students, trade school students, or other students beyond high school